When it comes to practicing yoga, you may think barefoot is better. And for many pro yogis, this may prove to be true, but beginners have a lot to benefit from wearing a grip sock, which can help you stick your moves and further your practice and assuage any fears of slipping on the floor or mat during more advanced moves.

“Yoga socks are kind of like yoga training wheels! Socks can give you a grip when you don’t have the right kind of mat or when you are not used to balancing your energy on all four corners of your feet,” says Donnalynn Civello, a New York-based certified yoga instructor. “Once you start growing into your yoga body, you shouldn’t need them anymore.”

That said, other mat-based workouts, such as Pilates and barre, also benefit from a good pair of grippies. Many of these specialty studios often come carpeted, too, so wearing socks during class is also a more hygienic practice. We chose options that help you feel more grounded, at least until you’re ready for those “training wheels” to come off!

Whether you’re taking up yoga for the first time and need some extra help or are a pro but want to keep those toes warm until your body heats up, there’s a pair of yoga socks perfect for you:

After more than 50 hours of research, three editors put several yoga socks to the test with more than 30 hours of yoga, Pilates, dance, and barre classes (our bodies, thank you, reader!) before finalizing our list of the best of the best. We tested for traction, slip, style, comfort, and overall look and feel while on and off the mat.